Plenty of choice

Possible patio and path materials available include gravel, chippings, timber decking, paving slabs, small blocks, or for a continuous surface, imprinted concrete and resin-bonded gravel.

Although gravel and chippings have their place in the garden, that place is not close to the house or on the main route around it, because it finds its way indoors so easily. It also works its way down slopes, and needs kerbing to prevent it from migrating sideways onto soil and lawns. Neither are loose materials practical for lightweight garden furniture or children's wheeled toys. So look for resin-bonded materials offered by contractors to solve this problem.

See the large range of decorative gravel, pebbles, cobbles, slate and stone chippings at:

B and Q , Wickes and Gardening Direct

See decking from:

Wickes and B and Q

See block paving from:

Wickes and B and Q and our on-line garden center

Timber decking in small units creates a warm and attractive patio surface. The units are lighter than paving and, because they are fitted to a framework of timbers, there's little ground preparation necessary, and no mixing of mortar.

However, large and small paving units are still the familiar favourite material of most homeowners. The units are manufactured in many useful square, rectangular and circular sizes, with wedge-shapes that allow you to construct pleasingly curved paths and circular features to surround a specimen plant, a gurgle fountain or pool. And crazy-paving is a cheap but time-consuming re-cycling option if you've a supply of broken paving slabs.

In addition to this source of smooth surfacing, there are small paving blocks, cobbles and setts available in a range of colours for constructing a durable surface in a variety of patterns. These small units are particularly valuable for curves, circles and fantails, although there are larger slabs that have been cunningly cast to give the finished appearance of many smaller pieces. So if you'd like a brick or cobbled path, but can't face the chore of setting each element in its correct position, choose these special effect flags instead.

The combination of contrasting materials and colours can be pleasing, but beware of getting carried away and creating a very fussy scene that fights with the rest of the garden for attention. Traditional combinations have arisen for good reason, so only mix a couple of textures and colours at a time to be on the safe side.